Block Scheduling Survey

Parent Block Scheduling Survey

School schedules have a powerful impact on student achievement. Our school is currently studying scheduling alternatives designed to improve student learning and achievement. Please take the time to browse the information below. Then answer the accompanying questions so we can gauge parental feedback.Our school is studying the feasibility of going to a 90 minute block schedule for the 2017-2018 school year. This type of schedule would be similar to what is being used in schools like South West Dekalb, Redan, and Lithonia High Schools. Currently, we are using an every day, 7 period schedule using 40-50 minute class periods.

PROS OF BLOCK SCHEDULE* A teacher sees less students during the day, thereby giving them the ability to spend more time with each individual.* Because of the increased span of teaching time, longer cooperative learning activities can be completed in one class period. Also, there is more time for labs in science classes.* Students have less information to deal with over the course of a school day.* Because of the decreased number of classes, students have less homework on any given day during the week.* The teacher is able to provide more varied instruction during class. Thus, it is easier to deal with students with disabilities and differing learning styles.* Planning periods are longer. It seems that with a longer span of time, planning becomes easier and more gets done.* With less class transitions, the school has a calmer environment with less interruptions to the instructional day.

CONS* If a student misses a day under the block schedule, that student is actually missing 90 mins. worth of instruction which will be more difficult to make up.* Students must be more aware of juggling class requirements such as projects or homework since they will have these opportunities more often..* Teachers may not have a longer 90 minute planning/conference period every day.

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1.Longer class periods would provide more opportunities for students to engage in critical thinking and problem solving activities.

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2.A schedule where fewer classes are seen during a single day would allow for a safer school environment by reducing the numbers of times students spend in halls during transition.

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3.A schedule where fewer classes are seen during a single day would allow for fewer homework assignments on a given night and allow for a deeper understanding of each subject.

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4.What do you feel are the benefits of block scheduling? (Can pick more then one item)

Smaller class size

Deeper learning

Less homework

More student engagement

Positive school climate

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5.What do you feel are the negative impacts of block scheduling?

More homework

Lack of in-depth learning

Negative school climate

Lack of flexibility in scheduling

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6.Longer class periods would allow teachers to spend more time with individual students.

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7.A schedule where fewer classes are seen during a single day would allow for a safer school environment by reducing the numbers of times students spend in halls during transition.

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8.Pick the schedule that you think most benefits high school students.

Block Schedule

Traditional (every class every day schedule)

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9.Please add any additional comments you have about the block or traditional schedule.